Be Your Own Bodyworker

My career as a bodyworker began in the Fall of 1990 when I attended the Institute for Holistic Studies on the weekends during my sophomore year at UC Santa Barbara. Intending to pursue Massage Therapy as purely a “college job”, I discovered I found therapeutic intervention for the body even more fascinating than therapy for the mind. I completed my Psychology degree, then pivoted to a Masters in Physical Therapy at USC. Since then I’ve worked in both the medical and spa settings, continuing to study a wide range of manual therapy techniques (Craniosacral Therapy, Lymphatic Drainage, Fascial Counterstrain, Trigger Point Release, Thai Massage, Ashiatsu, Dry Needling, Cupping). I’ve been fortunate to work alongside dozens of highly skilled MTs and PTs, learning from each of them by treating each other. No one appreciates bodywork more than bodyworkers themselves, or knows how important it is to get regular treatment. Clients always ask us how often they should come. If weekly is an option, I always recommend it; but honestly, that alone often isn’t enough. Once the tone and length of our muscles and fascia have adaptively changed (due to prolonged positions, overuse, underuse, trauma, etc), best odds for correction = daily treatment. Even just a few minutes a day significantly improves our body’s ability to maintain lasting change. Thankfully, there has been a prolific influx of highly effective self-care tools over the last few years. My favorites include foam rolls (low-density), self-massage balls (rubber) and several of the mechanical percussion devices (vibration guns, rolls and balls). On days when we position or move our bodies in ways that perpetuate tightness and strain, we can easily self-treat if we have the proper tools on hand. I personally use at least one of these tools daily, and credit my self-care routine for my ability to continue working in a physically demanding job for over 3 decades. The best part about self-massage is that it feels amazing! I’m sure many of you, like me, are spa junkies. That doesn’t need to change. But once you’ve learned a few simple techniques, working on yourself can be equally fulfilling.

My parents gave new life to one of the trees that burned in the Paradise fire. Sculpted into a platform, it’s an ideal meditation seat on the edge of the canyon🌲

Hello from my new friend👋 Now what to name him🤔 My favorite Google suggestion is Indiana Bones (and I actually do have the perfect hat for that), but I’m pretty attached to my headband and wristbands look (especially since the athletics department is well known for it’s squash program). Any clever fitness puns much appreciated (bonus points if they reference a racquet sport)!!

Representing and As of last month I’m thrilled to be offering both physical therapy and massage therapy at the club. Pulled out my original grad school lab coat for the occasion!

If you haven’t heard the health benefits of the simple (free!!) practice of placing our bare feet on the 🌎, you need to check this out…🌼🌼🌼

The Earthing Movie: The Remarkable Science of Grounding (full documentary) Share where you're viewing the film from, how grounding (earthing) has helped you, and/or any questions in the comments below. Learn more at https://earthing...

So grateful to live in the heart of a city and still be able to ground my feet on the earth daily🌻

Did you run out of your favorite oil or are you just looking for a slightly different aroma? Check out these simple essential oil substitutions to mix things up a bit! https://www.doterra.com/US/en/blog/healthy-living-essential-oil-substitutions?OwnerID=29075

Lavender is one of the more popular essential oils. It’s commonly known to promote calm, peaceful emotions. When used topically before bed, you may find that you will sleep better than ever before. Give it a try! https://www.doterra.com/US/en/p/lavender-oil?OwnerID=29075

The doTERRA Emotional Aromatherapy® System Kit is a great way to help reduce negative feelings and help promote a calming, relaxing, peaceful, and happy environment. Check out all of the awesome uses for these essential oils!
https://www.doterra.com/US/en/p/emotional-aromatherapy-system-kit?OwnerID=29075

Fennel has a sweet licorice scent and is well known for its digestive properties. I personally start my day with 2 drops of fennel + 2 drops of lemon in an empty capsule (and a big glass of filtered water) to assist my digestive system in completing the detox processes that occurred during sleep😴 https://www.doterra.com/US/en/blog/spotlight-fennel-oil?OwnerID=29075